Pop

#276 - Whitney Houston (1985)

The Voice That Redefined Pop Stardom
What is the story behind Whitney Houston? In this episode of Album Archives, we trace how a debut album introduced one of the greatest voices in pop history to the world. Lets celebrate the dazzling 1985 debut that introduced the world to one of the most powerful voices in music history. With timeless hits like “How Will I Know,” “Greatest Love of All,” and “Saving All My Love for You,” Houston’s self-titled album set a new standard for vocal excellence and pop craftsmanship. Blending R&B, soul, and pop with effortless grace, Whitney Houston became a global phenomenon—earning multi-platinum status and paving the way for generations of divas to come. Join host Steve Epley as we explore the production genius behind the record, Whitney’s meteoric rise, and the cultural impact that continues to resonate decades later.
🎧 Listen To the Full AlbumPick up the vinyl here: https://ebay.com/inf/albumarchives/collections/68963598351?mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5339133224&toolid=80010&mkevt=1 Affiliate disclaimer: This link helps support the show at no extra cost to you.
➡️ Next Up: #275 explores Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder. Part of the fan-voted Top Albums of All Time Countdown from the Music Rewind Podcast. Full list: https://www.musicrewindpodcast.com/albumarchives Early Access on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/collection/1583821
🎙️ About Album Archives Get your weekly fix of music history with Album Archives! Host Steve Epley unravels the magic behind the Top 300 Albums of All Time—handpicked by Music Rewind fans. Each bite-sized episode dives deep into an album’s creation, sound, and legacy, delivering vibrant stories that resonate with die-hard fans and curious newcomers alike.
📱 Connect with Us: X/Twitter: https://x.com/AlbumArchives Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/albumarchivespodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@albumarchivespodcast 💬 Enjoyed this deep dive? Share the episode or leave a review wherever you listen!
🎧 More from Sidereal Media Group 📖 Music Rewind Sessions: The Soundtrack of Our Souls – The companion book to the Music Rewind universe. 🎙️ Music Rewind Podcast – Fans, musicians, and industry pros talk about their favorite albums. https://pod.link/1591608428 🎬 Cinema Decon Podcast – Deconstructing and overthinking the movies of our younger years. https://pod.link/1564671835 🌐 www.siderealmediagroup.com
🛒 Support the Show Get 15% off all music apparel, posters, and more at Old Glory with code MUSICREWIND. https://oldglory.com/discount/MUSICREWIND
📝 Disclaimer: No ownership of music material. All rights and credit go to the original artists and copyright holders. Fair Use applies under Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act (1976) for commentary, criticism, and education.
#WhitneyHouston #WhitneyHoustonAlbum #MusicHistory #Albums #Micropodcast #AlbumReview

#281 - Bad by Michael Jackson (1987)

The Album That Cemented Michael Jackson as the King of Pop!
What is the story behind Bad by Michael Jackson? In this episode of Album Archives, we examine the pressure of following Thriller and the determination to prove artistic independence. Blending pop, funk, rock, and R&B with bold precision at #281, Bad delivered era-defining anthems like “The Way You Make Me Feel,” “Man in the Mirror,” and the explosive title track. Produced by the legendary Quincy Jones, the album pushed Jackson’s creative boundaries while reshaping the landscape of popular music. We unpack the sonic ambition, visual storytelling, and cultural dominance that made Bad a cornerstone of modern pop history.
🎧 Listen To the Full AlbumPick up the vinyl here: https://ebay.com/inf/albumarchives/collections/68963598351?mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5339133224&toolid=80010&mkevt=1 Affiliate disclaimer: This link helps support the show at no extra cost to you.
 
Next Up: #280 explores Foo Fighters (1995). Part of the fan-voted Top Albums of All Time Countdown from the Music Rewind Podcast. Full list: musicrewindpodcast.com/albumarchives Early Access on our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/collection/1583821 
🎙️ About Album Archives Get your weekly fix of music history with Album Archives! Host Steve Epley unravels the magic behind the Top 300 Albums of All Time—handpicked by Music Rewind fans. Each bite-sized episode dives deep into an album’s creation, sound, and legacy, delivering vibrant stories that resonate with die-hard fans and curious newcomers alike.
📱 Connect with Us: X/Twitter: https://x.com/AlbumArchives Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/albumarchivespodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@albumarchivespodcast 
💬 Enjoyed this deep dive? Share the episode or leave a review wherever you listen!
🎧 More from Sidereal Media Group 📖 Music Rewind Sessions: The Soundtrack of Our Souls – The companion book to the Music Rewind universe. Music Rewind Podcast – Fans, musicians, and industry pros talk about their favorite albums. https://pod.link/1591608428
Cinema Decon Podcast – Deconstructing and overthinking the movies of our younger years. https://pod.link/1564671835 
www.siderealmediagroup.com 
🛒 Support the Show Get 15% off all music apparel, posters, and more at Old Glory with code MUSICREWIND. https://oldglory.com/discount/MUSICREWIND 
📝 Disclaimer: No ownership of music material. All rights and credit go to the original artists and copyright holders. Fair Use applies under Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act (1976) for commentary, criticism, and education.
#MichaelJackson #Bad #MusicHistory #Albums #Micropodcast #AlbumReview

#283 - The Soft Bulletin by The Flaming Lips (1999)

Unraveling the Magic of The Flaming Lips
What is the story behind The Soft Bulletin by The Flaming Lips? In this episode of Album Archives, we examine how a near-collapse led to a creative rebirth and one of the most beloved albums of the alternative era. Lets dive into the band’s 1999 masterpiece—a lush, emotional, and sonically adventurous record that marked a bold evolution in their sound. From the euphoric rush of “Race for the Prize” to the fragile beauty of “Waiting for a Superman,” this album blends orchestral grandeur with raw human introspection. Join host Steve Epley as we explore its creation, themes of love and mortality, and lasting impact on modern indie rock.
🎧 Listen To the Full AlbumPick up the vinyl here: https://ebay.com/inf/albumarchives/collections/68963598351?mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5339133224&toolid=80010&mkevt=1 Affiliate disclaimer: This link helps support the show at no extra cost to you.
 
Also check out the Music Rewind episode with guest Jack Robertson discussing this album in depth:https://pod.link/1591608428/episode/bXVzaWNyZXdpbmQucG9kYmVhbi5jb20vYjI2NjNkZTYtMTlmMy0zODNiLThjMzUtZjlkMDc3NjcxMWQ0
Next Up: #282 explores Them Crooked Vultures. Part of the fan-voted Top Albums of All Time Countdown from the Music Rewind Podcast. Full list: musicrewindpodcast.com/albumarchives Early Access on our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/collection/1583821 
🎙️ About Album Archives Get your weekly fix of music history with Album Archives! Host Steve Epley unravels the magic behind the Top 300 Albums of All Time—handpicked by Music Rewind fans. Each bite-sized episode dives deep into an album’s creation, sound, and legacy, delivering vibrant stories that resonate with die-hard fans and curious newcomers alike.
📱 Connect with Us: X/Twitter: https://x.com/AlbumArchives Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/albumarchivespodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@albumarchivespodcast 
💬 Enjoyed this deep dive? Share the episode or leave a review wherever you listen!
🎧 More from Sidereal Media Group 📖 Music Rewind Sessions: The Soundtrack of Our Souls – The companion book to the Music Rewind universe. Music Rewind Podcast – Fans, musicians, and industry pros talk about their favorite albums. https://pod.link/1591608428
Cinema Decon Podcast – Deconstructing and overthinking the movies of our younger years. https://pod.link/1564671835 
www.siderealmediagroup.com 
🛒 Support the Show Get 15% off all music apparel, posters, and more at Old Glory with code MUSICREWIND. https://oldglory.com/discount/MUSICREWIND 
📝 Disclaimer: No ownership of music material. All rights and credit go to the original artists and copyright holders. Fair Use applies under Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act (1976) for commentary, criticism, and education.
#TheFlamingLips #TheSoftBulletin #IndieRock #MusicHistory #AlbumArchives #AlbumReview
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#287 - No Need To Argue by The Cranberries (1994)

How The Cranberries Re-Defined Alt-Rock in 1994!
 
What is the story behind No Need to Argue by The Cranberries? In this episode of Album Archives, we explore how grief, politics, and melody collided to produce one of the most emotionally resonant albums of the 1990s. Lets delve into the Irish quartet’s hauntingly beautiful sophomore album that skyrocketed them to global fame. From the searing intensity of “Zombie” to the tender ache of “Ode to My Family,” this record weaves raw vulnerability with lush melodies. Join host Steve Epley as we explore its poignant songwriting, Dolores O’Riordan’s unforgettable voice, and its lasting mark on the alt-rock scene.
🎧 Listen To the Full AlbumPick up the vinyl here: https://ebay.com/inf/albumarchives/collections/68963598351?mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5339133224&toolid=80010&mkevt=1 Affiliate disclaimer: This link helps support the show at no extra cost to you.
Next Up: #286 explores Pump by Aerosmith.Part of the fan-voted Top Albums of All Time Countdown from the Music Rewind Podcast. Full list: musicrewindpodcast.com/albumarchives Early Access on our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/collection/1583821 
🎙️ About Album Archives Get your weekly fix of music history with Album Archives! Host Steve Epley unravels the magic behind the Top 300 Albums of All Time—handpicked by Music Rewind fans. Each bite-sized episode dives deep into an album’s creation, sound, and legacy, delivering vibrant stories that resonate with die-hard fans and curious newcomers alike.
📱 Connect with Us: X/Twitter: https://x.com/AlbumArchives Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/albumarchivespodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@albumarchivespodcast 
💬 Enjoyed this deep dive? Share the episode or leave a review wherever you listen!
🎧 More from Sidereal Media Group 📖 Music Rewind Sessions: The Soundtrack of Our Souls – The companion book to the Music Rewind universe. Music Rewind Podcast – Fans, musicians, and industry pros talk about their favorite albums. https://pod.link/1591608428
Cinema Decon Podcast – Deconstructing and overthinking the movies of our younger years. https://pod.link/1564671835 
www.siderealmediagroup.com 
🛒 Support the Show Get 15% off all music apparel, posters, and more at Old Glory with code MUSICREWIND. https://oldglory.com/discount/MUSICREWIND 
📝 Disclaimer: No ownership of music material. All rights and credit go to the original artists and copyright holders. Fair Use applies under Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act (1976) for commentary, criticism, and education.
#TheCranberries #NoNeedToArgue #DoloresORiordan #MusicHistory #Albums #AlbumReview

#292 - Come Away With Me by Norah Jones (2002)

How Norah Jones’ Come Away With Me Changed Music Forever!
What is the story behind Come Away With Me by Norah Jones? In this episode of Album Archives, we explore how a quiet, genre-blurring debut became an unlikely cultural phenomenon in the early 2000s.  Lets explore Jones’ debut masterpiece—a seamless blend of jazz, folk, and pop that redefined modern music. From the intimate sway of “Don’t Know Why” to the heartfelt pull of “Come Away With Me,” this album showcases her smoky voice and timeless artistry. Join host Steve Epley as we delve into its understated creation, meteoric rise, and enduring influence on the singer-songwriter landscape.
🎧 Listen To the Full AlbumPick up the vinyl here: https://ebay.com/inf/albumarchives/collections/68963598351?mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5339133224&toolid=80010&mkevt=1 Affiliate disclaimer: This link helps support the show at no extra cost to you.
Next Up: #291 explores Eliminator by ZZ Top. As based on the fan-voted Top Albums Of All Time on the Music Rewind Podcast. https://www.musicrewindpodcast.com/albumarchives
As we always say, “Listen To The Full Album.”
About Album Archives: Album Archives is a music history micro-podcast hosted by Steve Epley, exploring the fan-voted Top 300 Albums of All Time. Each short episode delivers the story behind a classic record—its creation, impact, and enduring influence—all in under ten minutes. Perfect for music lovers who want both depth and brevity.
Connect: Share this episode or leave a review wherever you listen! Follow us on social media: X/Twitter → https://x.com/AlbumArchives Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/albumarchivespodcast/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@albumarchivespodcast
Enjoyed this deep dive? Check out more Album Archives episodes and join us for the journey through music history!
More from Sidereal Media Group: 📖 Music Rewind Sessions: The Soundtrack Of Our Souls – Available now! 🎵 The Music Rewind Podcast – Fans, musicians, and industry experts talk about their favorite albums. https://pod.link/1591608428 🎬 Cinema Decon Podcast – Deconstructing and overthinking the movies of our younger years. https://pod.link/1564671835
Support the Show: Get 15% off all your music apparel, posters, and more at Old Glory! https://oldglory.com/discount/MUSICREWIND
Disclaimer: No ownership of music material. All credits go to their rightful owners. Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act (1976); allowance is made for “Fair Use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research.
#NorahJones #ComeAwayWithMe #JazzPop #MusicHistory #Albums #Podcast

#295 - The Stranger by Billy Joel (1977)

The Amazing Story Behind Billy Joel’s Breakout Album
What is the story behind The Stranger by Billy Joel? In this episode of Album Archives, we rewind to 1977 and trace how Joel balanced pop ambition with personal songwriting to create his defining album. Number 295 on the Top 300 Albums of All Time and packed with timeless hits like “Just the Way You Are,” “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant,” and “Only the Good Die Young,” the album blends gritty storytelling, pop-rock polish, and New York soul. Join host Steve Epley as we explore the album’s creation, cinematic sound, and enduring legacy as one of the most influential records of its era.
🎧 Listen To The Full Album
Pick up the vinyl here: https://www.ebay.com/itm/127520187224?mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5339133224&toolid=80005&mkevt=1 (Affiliate Link, I'd get a small commission)
🔜 Next Up: #294 – The Velvet Underground & Nico Part of the fan-voted Top Albums of All Time Countdown from the Music Rewind Podcast. Full list: https://www.musicrewindpodcast.com/topalbumsofalltime
🎙️ About Album Archives Get your weekly fix of music history with Album Archives! Host Steve Epley unravels the magic behind the Top 300 Albums of All Time—handpicked by Music Rewind fans. Each bite-sized episode dives deep into an album’s creation, sound, and legacy, delivering vibrant stories that resonate with die-hard fans and curious newcomers alike.
📱 Connect with Us: X/Twitter: https://x.com/AlbumArchives Instagram: https://instagram.com/albumarchivespodcast TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@albumarchivespodcast
💬 Enjoyed this deep dive? Share the episode or leave a review wherever you listen!
🎧 More from Sidereal Media Group 📖 Music Rewind Sessions: The Soundtrack of Our Souls – The companion book to the Music Rewind universe. 🎙️ Music Rewind Podcast – Fans, musicians, and industry pros talk about their favorite albums. https://pod.link/1591608428
🎬 Cinema Decon Podcast – Deconstructing and overthinking the movies of our younger years. https://pod.link/1564671835
🛒 Support the Show Get 15% off all music apparel, posters, and more at Old Glory with code MUSICREWIND. https://oldglory.com/discount/MUSICREWIND
📝 Disclaimer: No ownership of music material. All rights and credit go to the original artists and copyright holders. Fair Use applies under Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act (1976) for commentary, criticism, and education.
#BillyJoel #TheStranger #ClassicRock #PianoMan #MusicHistory #Albums #Micropodcast #AlbumReview #SiderealMediaGroup